A Priest is to perform all liturgical services, except liturgy, in cassock
and riassa, on top of which special liturgical garments are
needed. When serving a liturgy, and in other cases, when according
to the Typikon, a Priest must be in full liturgical vestments,
the riassa is taken off, and the alb is worn over cassock,
with other garments. The Priest's Robe (Alb) has close sleeves.
His Stole (Epitrahilion) consists of a long piece of stuff
like the Deacon's, but broader than the latter, which passes
round his neck, is joined in front for its entire length,
and falls low upon his robe. It typifies the consecrating
grace of the priesthood. The Priest, like the Deacon can celebrate
no Office without his Stole. The Girdle is sort of belt wherewith
the priest girds himself above his robe and stole, for convenience
in serving the altar. It is symbolical of the gift of strength,
wherewith God aids him in his service, and exhorts him to
blamelessness of life. His Cuffs typify the bonds wherewith
the hands of our Lord were bound. The Epigonation is an oblong
piece of brocade, which is suspended upon the hip of a Priest,
and signifies the spiritual sword, which is the Word of God.
The distinguishing vestment of the Priest is the Chasuble
(Phelonion), a long, ample garment without sleeves, short
in front and with an opening for the head, which is put on
over the other vestments. Priests also receive, as tokens
of distinguished service, the pointed and the upright Biretta
( Skuphia and/or Kamilavka).